Locations & Times

Are you living by a code that leads to a truly abundant life? In the first week of our "Branded" series, we explore the parallels between the 'cowboy way of life' and following Jesus. In this message, Jim introduces four life-changing principles: Stewardship over Ownership, Prioritizing God, the Law of Sowing and Reaping, and Vigilance against Spiritual Outlaws. Through Jim's message, we were encouraged to look into our own lives under these principles, particularly our attitudes towards money and resources.

SETLIST

"Cowboy Casanova" By Carrie Underwood

"Holy Water" By We The Kingdom

"Graves Into Gardens" By Brandon Lake and Elevation Worship

"I Speak Jesus" by Charity Gayle

"Living Hope / How Great Thou Art" By Phil Wickham, Available on "Living Hope" 

GROUP QUESTIONS

Jim Burgen

February 4th, 2024

// Bible References
Matthew 6:24; Psalm 24:1; 2 Cor 9:7; 1 Kings 17:8-15; Malachi 3:10

// Community Question: Why is money, giving, and church such a hard topic to discuss? Why do you think the Bible talks about money over 2000 times?

// Discussion Questions

1. Jim talks about the first principle of the faith code as being stewards, not owners. This concept originates from Genesis and the role that Adam and Eve had in God's garden. How does recognizing ourselves as stewards rather than owners change our perspective on money and possessions? In what ways can we practice being good stewards of the resources and possessions God has entrusted to us?
2. The sermon teaches that putting God first enables everything else to fall into place and helps us to rely on Him as the ultimate source of provision. Why is putting God first important for our financial well-being and life balance? How can we prioritize God in our finances and decisions related to money?
3. Read Matthew 6:24 and Psalm 24:1. Jim discusses how to view money from a different perspective and align with God's truth that everything belongs to Him. How can we overcome negative emotions associated with money and embrace God's perspective on it? What is one concrete action you can take to change your current mindset around money and align it more with God's perspective?
4. The sermon discusses making God the first priority in our life and guarding against ‘outlaws and thieves’ that lie about the significance and role of money. What are some potential 'outlaws and thieves' in your life that you may need to guard against in order to experience God's provision and blessings?
5. Read 1 Kings 17:8-15 and Malachi 3:10. Jim emphasizes the importance of giving, relating it to the principle of multiplication where giving generously leads to receiving blessings of abundance. What does it mean to give generously? What are some practical ways you can give generously in your daily life, even if it's not financially?

// Challenge: Will you commit to attending this entire series and being open to God’s direction regarding your finances?